My grandfather, with whom I spent many of my daytime hours when I was a little fellow, had a well-honed habit of quoting scripture to me (and to anyone else who would listen.). One of his favorites was Proverbs 18:24b, which in the King James reads, “There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother.” More contemporary translations have it, “closer than your nearest kin.” When my grandfather spoke it, he heard the passage saying that the “friend” was God, and I understand that interpretation. Most students of the passage, however, hear it as saying that in the community of faith, there are earthly relationships that are more powerful even than “family”. Have you had the experience that some of your most profound connections are with people that are not, in the strict sense, family?
Once when Jesus was in an intense time of his ministry, he was teaching some demanding things. Someone came to Jesus during these moments and said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.” Jesus responded, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” He then follows that with “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” In this little question and response, Jesus moves to define what his ministry would impact the way we carry relationships. To be a follower of Jesus means that all our connections must be seen through the prism of that faith commitment. Our deep family, Jesus would say, are those who do the will of God.
In a day in which we see considerable strife around us, these words call us to reflect on what it means to be in relationship with others. The sermon at St. Mark’s on Sunday is titled, “Who Are My Siblings: A Reflection on Community in Christ.” The sermon flows from Psalm 133, which will be read by Amy Thomas, and Mark 3: 31-35, which will be read by Chris Hitchcock. During the service, we’ll also recognize graduates of high school and college who have connection with us. We will be led musically in the service by the Chancel Choir, which is led by Gerry Sousa and accompanied by Lois Leong. We’ll sing together and have a moment for children.
We look forward to joining with us, either in the sanctuary at 10:30, or online. To do the latter, visit www.smumc.church, and click on the Live Stream banner.